Redfearn: Delay is suggesting Leeds are undecided

Richard Sutcliffe

Neil Redfearn expects to learn more about his future at Leeds United next week.

The 49-year-old is still waiting to hear if the Elland Road hierarchy want to extend his contract beyond June despite his hugely impressive stint as head coach.

Considering the abject failure that were the short reigns of Dave Hockaday and Darko Milanic, United surely owe a huge debt of gratitude to Redfearn for keeping the club on an even keel amid a chaotic season.

Owner Massimo Cellino’s suspension from being involved at Leeds expires after tomorrow’s final-day meeting with Rotherham United and the Italian’s return is likely to mean a decision, one way or the other, being made on the popular Redfearn’s future.

“I wouldn’t know,” said United’s head coach when asked what the club’s thought process is over him. “It seems they have not decided either way or I would have thought that by this point they would have told me.

“They know what I am like, they know I am professional enough to get on with things even if it was a case of, ‘Look, we are going to change it in the summer.’

“If it was to the end of this season, I would have been professional and done it. It only leads me to think that they’re undecided.”

Asked if he would be hurt if Leeds do show him the door, Redfearn replied: “Definitely. But I am a professional person and I understand how football works.

“I have got no divine right to be manager, but I would love to be in charge next season, that goes without saying.

“It would be great (to stay). I can see the way forward and, by that, I mean I can see the young players getting better and better. I can see adding other players to it.

“I can see the experienced players who are here growing and taking responsibility. I can see the majority of the overseas lads finding their feet. I can see it taking off. Why wouldn’t I want to be part of that?”

The suspension of assistant manager Steve Thompson for, as yet, unknown reasons came while Cellino was serving his ban. Redfearn added: “That is something that has got to be resolved. He has been suspended, but I don’t think there’s been an inquiry since. It would be nice to know what is at the bottom of it for Steve. It would also be good if I could get Steve back.”

As for his own future, the Leeds head coach added: “Probably next week, it will unravel. Whatever will happen will happen.”